1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 553 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volvo 120 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2470 mm |
